CLAPHAM BIJOU GARDEN

This beautiful small garden has a relaxed and stylish atmosphere that complements the interior and seamlessly flows from the kitchen, essentially creating an outdoor room that is both beautiful and practical. The clients wanted an outdoor space with seating, a green egg, and a natural lawn for their cats. It is important to maximise small outdoor spaces and with a bespoke built-in bench that has integrated planters as the back, the garden now includes a dining area that comfortably seats six people, an outdoor kitchen with a bar area for additional seating, and a nice natural lawn area. The carefully chosen dining table and chairs fit the space perfectly and the planters that function as the bench's back have soft herbaceous plants planted for colour and interest. A carefully chosen multi-stem Japanese maple was planted in the paving between the dining and bar area, adding height and three-dimensionality to the space, with lush green leaves appearing in spring and beautiful autumn colours later in the year. The outdoor kitchen includes a large green egg for barbequing, storage underneath, and a small bar area that seats two people perfect for keeping the chef company whilst cooking. Carpinus espalier trees were added to two sides of the garden to provide screening from the neighbours, with yew hedging in-between for a strong backbone, including evergreen climbers to soften the trellis. The natural lawn adds a different texture and softness to the garden. The garden's materials and colours are a palette of soft beige stone paving slabs, painted horizontal trellis and a natural lawn, all set against the rich planting, including Carpinus espaliers, yew hedging, evergreen climbers, and a sculptural tree across the space to provide interest and depth. The simple yet strong planting will look stunning when lit at night, as lighting plays an essential role in adding further dimension and drama to the garden and helps to extend the life of a garden, creating an atmospheric space or outdoor room after dark.